Socio-Economic and Perceptual Determinants of Street Medicine Use in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo—January 2024

Abstract

In troduction: The widespread use of street medicines (SM) represents a significant public health concern across Africa. This study aimed to identify the socio-demographic, economic, and perceptual factors associated with SM use in Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in January 2024, involving 734 individuals across 720 households in Brazzaville. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were used to explore associations. Analyses were conducted using R software version 4.4.1, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Of all respondents, 88.4% reported using SM. Use was significantly higher among individuals aged 50 and above (60.4%, p < 0.001). Although male respondents were slightly more likely to use street medicine, this association was not statistically significant (p = 0.113). Participants earning the statutory minimum wage (SMIG) were more likely to use SM (OR = 3.64; 95% CI: 1.18 - 11.20; p = 0.024). Traders made up 43.1% of users. Residents of Ouenzé district had higher odds of use (OR = 10.68; p < 0.001). A positive perception of SM quality was also strongly associated (OR = 7.81; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Street medicine use in Brazzaville is widespread and associated with age, gender, income, occupation, residential area, and perception. Urgent measures are needed to improve drug regulation and healthcare access.